Book now
The Scottish Highlands welcomes millions of visitors each year, every one of them enjoying the vast, rugged landscapes and stunning lochs. But behind these tourist hotspots are hidden gems which only the locals and those ‘in the know’ will tell you about. These often include some of the most memorable experiences you will ever enjoy in Scotland. So for those looking to get off the beaten track and enjoy a unique holiday finding hidden gems in Scotland, here are some ideas.
Ghillie Basan – food workshop
You may not think a remote croft in the Cairngorm Mountains is a place to experience a cookery workshop. In fact, if you find your way to Ghillie Basan’s kitchen, you are in for a spectacular treat. A writer, broadcaster, and food anthropologist, Ghillie offers workshops in her croft. From here, she will take you on a culinary trip around the world. This unique experience has people come from New zealand, America and all over to join her on a food safari, before doing the cooking themselves under her watchful eye.
A range of workshops are on offer, including Mad about Mezze, Spice Safari and Veggie & Vegan. Advance booking is required with Ghillie as places are limited. You can contact her here.
Plodda Falls
Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most beautiful hidden treasures, Plodda Falls is a vertical cascade of water dropping 46 metres to the ground. Everything about this experience is stunning. That includes the short walk to the waterfall, which takes visitors through magnificent Douglas Fir trees planted in the 1850s by Member of Parliament Laird Fraser. Some of them are the highest of their type in Scotland. Wood from this forest was used in the construction of the RRS Discovery. This was the ship used by Robert Scott and Ernest Shackleton on their first journey to the Antarctic.
At the end of the walk is Plodda Falls. A viewing platform allows visitors to get close to the water, making it an immersive experience. This is all the more true after heavy rain when the waterfall is at full force. At this time its spray can reach all the way to the path and beyond. A viewing area is also available at the top of the falls, offering an birds eye view of this hidden gem.
Furthermore, Plodda Falls sits Glen Affric, often described as the most beautiful of all Scotland’s glens. This is said to be the site in the famous painting ‘Monarch of the Glen’, and is a tranquil area to enjoy.
Guided photography tours
Some special areas of Scotland are kept so secret you have to hire a guide to experience them. With a guided photography tour, you can travel with someone who knows the Highlands inside out. They will help you discover the perfect spots to further your photography passion.
For example, Ollie Taylor, who has worked for the likes of New Scientist, Time and National Geographic offers astrophotography workshops. These nighttime events allow guests the chance to see Scotland at night like never before. His workshops book up fast, so be sure to get your space as soon as you can.
If you are looking for daylight photography tours, then landscape photographer Tomasz Szatewicz, based in Inverness, runs 1-to-1 photography workshops and bespoke photo tours. This means you get exactly what you want during your time here with personal tuition from a professional who knows the area in detail. Find out more about Thomasz’s workshops here.
Hidden Scotland
There’s so much to see and do around Inverness, especially if you want to avoid the crowds. Once you have booked your luxury stay in Inverness, Speak to us for more information on hidden gems in Scotland and we’ll be happy to let you know where to discover next.
See Our Offers
